Compromise

by Minnie67890

Chapter 25: Chapter 25

Notes:

So... it's been a while 😅 I am terribly sorry for the long break. I know, I suck. Just a lot of things happening with the family.
My aunt got covid, and we had to quarantine. A few weeks later my father got covid, and we had to quarantine again. And let me tell you, it's hard quarantining at home cuz the chores are just endless. With Dad out with covid, and Mom already suffering from rheumatism, it was just all on me. Everyone's fine now, it wasn't that serious. Although, they still have mild irritated throats, and I'm beginning to doubt if Dad is depressed.

Anyway then I almost got arrested for messing with government property, because somebody thought it fun to remove the government markers to encroach on our property. They dropped the charges once they realized that, after all who in their right mind would try to reduce their own property ＼（〇_ｏ）／

This chapter should've been finished like in november, but here we are. I really hate disappointing you guys, especially since some of you view this as a comfort fic.

I hope you enjoy. I took a long break between the first half and the second half of the story so don't expect too much

Chapter 25

 

“So, our families want to meet up?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“And you want us there?”

 

“Uh-huh.”

 

“This weekend? On such short notice? To Daegu?”

 

“Yup.”

 

Jeonghan sighed into the phone, “Jeongyeon-“

 

“C’mon oppa, it’ll be awkward without you two. You can’t leave me with them,” it was practically an order, “Besides, you promised.”

 

“I don’t remember that, and I’m sure you’re the one who brought it up, if it did happen,” there was a slight tilt of amusement to his words.

 

“I’ll have you know that, your Mom was the one who wanted this, so you can take it up with her.” Jeonghan was going to stay ten feet away from that conversation.

 

Instead, he chose to show his annoyance through a childish retort. “She’s your Mom too.”

 

“I’m pretty sure that I’m adopted. There’s no way that someone as talented as me came from this family. It’s out of my overflowing kindness that I’m even gonna be present at this in-law meeting stuff. So, your ass better be there,” she warned.

 

As tempting as it was to just send a picture of his ass, he feared retaliation, and he believed himself to be more mature than that. Thus he agreed to discuss about it with Seungcheol.

 

“He’s not home yet?”

 

Slouching against his pillow, Jeonghan’s eyes trailed down to Seungcheol’s face smushed against the omega’s abdomen, “He is, but he’s sleeping.” The alpha hummed, the vibrations surprising the younger.

 

“Tell him I said ‘Hi!’ when he wakes up. Bye!” She hung up before he could get another word in. He grumbled to himself about annoying little sisters, and put away his phone.

 

With a pout on his lips, Jeonghan ran his hand through his husband’s hair, “You heard that, Cheol?” The alpha hummed again.

 

“Will we be able to go? You have so much work, I don’t wanna drag you to Daegu on your weekend off,” Jeonghan brushed the older’s hair back.

 

Finally Seungcheol lifted his head, revealing his dimples due to his smile, “I’m fine, bunny. We can take the train. I’m more worried about you.”

 

“Me?”

 

“Of course, baby. It’ll be more tiring for you than it’ll be for me. Just say the word and I’ll get us out of this.”

 

Jeonghan cupped the alpha’s cheek in his hand, “That’s very sweet of you, Cheol, but could you imagine the chaos if we’re not there?” Seungcheol cringed, “Damn, you’re right.”

 

“We can leave Saturday morning and return in the evening. What do you think?”

 

“Sounds great, baby,” Seungcheol gave him a thumbs up before smushing his face against the omega’s stomach.

 

“Hey!” Jeonghan protested, poking his husband’s head, “Don’t go back to sleep.”

 

Raising his head to pout at him, the alpha whined, “But I’m sleepy.”

 

“Well, sleepy, I’m not your damn pillow. Use the mattress,” Jeonghan joked, pinching the older’s chubby cheeks. A wet patch in the middle of his sweat shirt caught the omega’s eyes, “Cheol! Did you drool on my brand new shirt?!”

 

“Not like it’s the first time I got my bodily fluids on you,” the alpha swatted his hand away to lay back down.

 

The gall of this man!

 

“You haven’t, not on my clothes!”

 

Wordlessly, Seungcheol pushed Jeonghan’s shirt up to his chest.

 

“Um, what are you doing?”

 

“I’ve definitely got some fluids on here,” Seungcheol smirked to the omega’s growing disbelief. Ignoring him, the alpha laid back down on his now bare stomach, but not before placing a small kiss over the exposed region.

 

“Why did I have to get stuck with such a pervert?” he lamented, poking said pervert’s head.

 

“Shut up, you love me.”

 

“No, I don’t.”

 

“Yet you still spread your legs for me,” the smugness was rolling off Seungcheol.

 

Now, Jeonghan knew that the alpha was talking about the completely innocent situation of him resting between the omega’s legs, but as the closeted pervert he was, Jeonghan’s mind immediately went to the lewdest scenario possible.

 

Unintentionally, he let out a small whine, because spreading his legs for the alpha seemed like an attractive choice. Seungcheol merely chuckled. He moved further up the omega’s body to stare at Jeonghan’s face.

 

“W-what?”

 

“Hannie, have you noticed that you’re getting more beautiful as the days pass by?” Seungcheol asked him as he traced a finger over Jeonghan’s jaw in wonder.

 

Jeonghan wanted to meet him with something cringe worthy, but the serious expression on the alpha’s face had him dumbfounded, “What are you talking about, babe?”

 

“You must notice it too right? I think it’s because you’re happy.” The alpha might have a point there. Jeonghan was happy, he was content.

 

“It’s because of all the love that I’m receiving.” See, Jeonghan could be cheesy too, if he wanted to. “It’s because you’re showering me with love.” Jeonghan winced, he felt like puking.

 

Seungcheol chuckled, “Cute. You’re so cute.” Kisses were left down the side of the omega’s face before they were rolled over. Jeonghan stared down at his excited husband.

 

“What’s with you today? I thought you wanted to go to sleep?” Jeonghan raised an eyebrow.

 

“It’s too early.”

 

“You wanted to turn in early.”

 

“Yeah, but my husband’s beauty is keeping me awake.”

 

Jeonghan shook his head with fondness.

 

“Can this husband help tire you out in any way?” Seungcheol had been working late into the night these past few days, Jeonghan wanted him to rest when he had the time, and he was willing to do anything for that to happen. Considering what he had just hinted at was something that they both would enjoy, it would be an easy task.

 

“If you feel like it, babe, I’m up for anything. I’m yours to use as you please,” Seungcheol held his hips to hike Jeonghan further up the alpha’s body.

 

Eh, me?!

 

Though he had taken the lead before, it was spurred on by his weird pre heat situation. As someone new to this, he would rather not deal with being responsible for both of their pleasure. But maybe he owed it to Seungcheol to take care of him after such tiring days. Even then, Jeonghan had absolutely no idea on what he was supposed to do.

 

“Tell me what you would like to do?”

 

“I would like to suck you off,” the alpha claimed proudly.

 

“Uhh… but that’s only going to tire me out.”

 

“Yeah, but that’s what I would like to do. You asked me my opinion and I gave you one.”

 

That’s on me. I should’ve known better.

 

“Well, I can suck you off,” Jeonghan suggested.

 

“You’ll have to brush your teeth again,” Seungcheol reminded him. Jeonghan scrunched his nose. He really did not want to brush his teeth again.

 

“You wanna go all the way?”

 

“If you want to, babe.”

 

“But that’s too much to clean up,” Jeonghan whined. Yes, he was that lazy.

 

“I’ll help you clean up, and this way even though you’ll brush your teeth again, this time you’ll be satisfied,” Seungcheol wiggled his eyebrows.

 

Giving in, Jeonghan snuggled into the alpha’s hold, resting his head in the crook of Seungcheol’s neck with a sigh,” So, how do you want to do this? I could just ride you?” No matter how much he loathed taking the lead right now, he wanted Seungcheol to exert as little energy as possible.

 

“Oooh! Then I’ll have to prep you.” In one swift swoop, Jeonghan was back on the bed, and the alpha was above him, trying to undress the omega. His body complying without thought.

 

“W-wait! Cheol-“

 

“Want your shirt off or on?”

 

“Uhm… off?”

 

“As you wish my love.” Seungcheol scrambled off of him and had him sitting up in one smooth swipe. His husband’s strength was both amazing and terrifying at the same time. Jeonghan shivered as his shirt came off.

 

“Wait just a second, love. I’ll have you warmed up in no time,” the alpha muttered as he searched the side table for the lube.

 

“But Cheol, you’re supposed to be resting.”

 

“Baby, I love doing this. Besides, I’ll worry if I don’t,” Seungcheol replied, gently pushing Jeonghan down to lay back, “Just relax for now, Hannie, I’ll have you ready in no time,” he put his lips to the omega’s forehead, and trailed kisses down the side of Jeonghan’s face to his lips. A kiss from which he didn’t pull back, biting at his lips, till the omega pushed him away to breathe.

 

“What’s gotten into you today?”

 

“Don’t know. You’re just extra attractive today.”

 

“It’s the rings, isn’t it?” They got the new engraved rings today. Seungcheol had been showering him with kisses since they first tried on the rings.

 

“I’m awestruck at having been able to be wedded to you. Every time that I’m reminded of our bonding, I get chills. I’m so damn lucky!”

 

“Seungcheol-ah, I’m the lucky one,” Jeonghan giggled at how his husband’s eyes shone. Silly alpha.

 

“No, no, you don’t understand, baby. You’re perfect. From your cute little nose, how it scrunches up when you laugh, your soft lips that surround your perfect teeth, how your eyes shine when you’re up to no good, the way your cheeks-“

 

“Hubby, you’re so biased. I mean, I understand. I think you’re the most gorgeous man to ever walk the planet. Nuh-uh,” Jeonghan shushed him, “That’s not a challenge. Don’t go trying to prove to me why I’m the best omega in the world.” He would not stop if Jeonghan didn’t stomp it out right now.

 

Seungcheol kissed him again, trailing down his jaw to his neck. All the time muttering about his beautiful mate. Making Jeonghan wonder, what was wrong with his alpha? But that thought didn’t stay for long when Seungcheol’s mouth had found the omega’s nipples. He moaned as the alpha’s tongue lapped around the hardening nub.

 

“You’re so sensitive here, babe. Think you can come with just this, hm?”

 

As Seungcheol’s tongue mapped a path down to his stomach, muttering more sinful things, Jeonghan’s mind couldn’t think about the answer. He wasn’t entirely sure if Seungcheol even expected an answer.

 

Without much wait, the alpha took his length into his mouth. Jeonghan sucked in a sharp breathe. Seungcheol traced his tongue down the side. Coming back up the length only to leave a kiss at the tip.

 

“Pretty and pink just like its owner,” he muttered.

 

“Cheol!”

 

“What?”

 

“Can you not talk like that?”

 

“You want me to be silent?” the alpha asked, tilting his head to rest on Jeonghan’s thigh.

 

“No, anything a bit more innocent, and not you wanting to eat me out,” Jeonghan’s face burned just from mentioning that.

 

“You heard that?”

 

“Baby, we’re the only ones here. I can hear you loud and clear.”

 

“Well?” Seungcheol looked at him expectantly.

 

“Well what?”

 

“May I eat you out?”

 

“How polite, but no.”

 

“Aw, c’mon. You never let me do what I want,” Seungcheol jutted out his lower lips. The omega barked a laugh at the alpha’s little tantrum, “No amount of pouting is going to work, mister. You’ll use your fingers, and only your fingers to open me up, okay?”

 

“Fine.” The pout showed no sign of leaving his husband’s face any time soon. Jeonghan shook his head at the man acting like he didn’t do just that, like, two days ago.

 

With too much eagerness, not befitting his little tantrum, Seungcheol very enthusiastically return to mouthing at the tip of the omega’s cock. And Jeonghan let himself go, head hitting the pillow, moans flowing out unrestrained.

 

Jeonghan barely noticed the alpha’s fingers slipping in due to the amazing head he was getting. A calloused hand gripped on to his waist to keep him from bucking. His hands were rooted in Seungcheol’s hair, never pulling too roughly. With tenderness that seemed misplaced in the situation, he ever so carefully stroked the alpha’s hair.

 

“C-cheol,” he called for the other’s attention. Seungcheol hummed around his dick, making Jeonghan clench around the digits currently working him open. The alpha let go off the length in his mouth, “What is it, Hannie?”

 

“Wanna cum,” and he didn’t want to wait anymore. His dick was already leaking cum, a gentle push was all he needed to go over the edge, but he wanted Seungcheol inside him when he did.

 

“I don’t know if you’re ready, baby,” concern was woven into his words. No doubt, remembering the last time Jeonghan rode him. But it didn’t matter to the omega. He was willing to put up with a bit of pain, if it meant that he could get Seungcheol’s dick inside him sooner.

 

“Now Seungcheol!” he stared up at the alpha petulantly.

 

Biting down his laugh, Seungcheol left kisses on the omega’s scrunched up eyebrows, “If you’re that sure, maybe we should forget about riding for today. Gravity won’t be kind to you.”

 

“Anything you want, Cheol,” Jeonghan gasped as a finger prodded against his rim. He spread his legs wider, wordlessly hurrying the alpha on.

 

“O-okay,” the alpha replied, out of breath, “I’ll be as gentle as possible. If it feels like it’s too much, you have to tell me, okay? Don’t even think about pretending that it doesn’t hurt, okay?” Jeonghan hurriedly nodded his head.

 

“Use your words, babe.”

 

“Mnhg- y-yes, got it.”

 

Seungcheol kissed him again, licking into his mouth, swallowing up Jeonghan’s complaints about the lack of dick in him. Which was probably what the kiss was intended for, shutting him up.

 

As if he weighed nothing more than air, Seungcheol pulled the omega’s legs around him how he preferred, and lifted him off the bed to arrange the pillows under and around him, the sudden movement making Jeonghan flail like a fish out of water. How unsexy. He grabbed on to the alpha like a leech.

 

“Baby,” he sounded amused, “You’ll have to let me go if you want me in you.” Jeonghan opened his eyes, which he didn’t notice were closed, to stare up at Seungcheol’s loving gaze. A sudden burst of joy bloomed in his chest, but it didn’t last long. A feeling of unease engulfed him as his treacherous mind reminded him of his nightmare from the previous night. A brief image of Minsoo’s unkind eyes flashed in front of him. Jeonghan stiffened.

 

“Baby? Hannie?” his husband’s expression morphed into worry, “We can stop if you want.”

 

Not trusting his voice, Jeonghan shook his head. Seungcheol looked sad. Jeonghan gently cupped the alpha’s cheek, hoping to soothe him. Seungcheol leaned into the touch, turning his head just a bit to leave a kiss on the omega’s open palm.

 

“You’re gonna have to let me go, if we’re to fuck. I’m willing to make a concession for a lot of things but lube is not one of them.” Jeonghan nodded, unwrapping his hands from around the alpha, but not completely. One of his hands were gripping Seungcheol’s wrist, so the alpha had to make do with one hand to lube up his length.

 

Seungcheol hummed eyeing the hand on his wrist, “Do you want to talk about it?”

 

“No,” Jeonghan looked away, and the alpha didn’t pry any further. Knowing the truth would only upset the older. To be mistaken for that douche would surely not be a pleasant feeling.

 

Deeming himself to be as ready as he can be, Seungcheol pressed the tip to Jeonghan’s entrance.

 

“I’m gonna take you now, okay angel? Say anything if it’s too much to bear, or even a tap will do, okay?” the words tumbled out of the alpha’s mouth. Too busy focusing on how his husband’s length was spreading him open, Jeonghan couldn’t even comprehend what half of what was being spoken.

 

It stung, no surprise there, but the feeling of being filled to the brim was amazing. Jeonghan shuddered as the alpha bottomed out. His body arching up to meet Seungcheol’s as the pressure on his prostate was too much to ignore.

 

Seungcheol kissed and sucked along his jaw and neck. His hands rubbing the omega’s sides to try and get him to relax.

 

“Relax Hannie, you’ll break my dick,” Seungcheol smirked into the hollow of Jeonghan’s neck as the younger whined about him over exaggerating.

 

“It’s because you’re too big, Cheol! You’re bigger than normal, you pervert!” Even as he said that, Jeonghan ground down, trying to fuck himself on his husband’s cock.

 

“Hannie!” the alpha shouted from shock, and as a scolding, “What are you doing? Give yourself some time to get used to it.” Jeonghan rolled his eyes at the nagging. He didn’t need to be treated like a porcelain doll. A little stretch wasn’t going to kill him.

 

“Don’t roll your eyes at me,” Seungcheol looked down at him sternly.

 

Amused by the situation, Jeonghan couldn’t help but grin, “Don’t be such a dad, Cheol.” He placed his hands over the alpha’s larger ones keeping a hold of his waist, and guided up his body, till he had Seungcheol’s lips hovering over his.

 

“Don’t you want to fuck me, Seungcheol?” Jeonghan whispered, his lips brushing against the alpha’s, at each word.

 

Seungcheol’s gaze was intense. Lust; thick and heavy. The alpha gulped, “I will not be tempted by you, y-you sinful vixen.”

 

Jeonghan giggled, running his tongue over the alpha’s bottom lip, coaxing the alpha into a searing kiss. “Your resolve is lacking,” he teased Seungcheol as they pulled away.

 

“When have I ever not crumbled before you?”

 

“I’m that good, aren’t I?”

 

“Yes, you are,” Seungcheol kissed him, his tongue asking for entrance. Jeonghan denied his request. “Only if you start moving.”

 

“Are you ready, babe?”

 

Jeonghan huffed, “Yes, like ages ago.”

 

“Don’t lie to me, Hannie. I know your body like my own.”

 

That made him not want to admit it even more.

 

“Ugh, fine,” he crumbled under the alpha’s sternness, “I wasn’t ready earlier, but I am now.”

 

“See,” Seungcheol nosed at his mating mark, “That wasn’t so hard. I just don’t want you to get hurt, yeah? I know you’re not made of glass, and I don’t mind being a little rough-“

 

Really? You’re expression says otherwise. Looks like it caused you physical pain to say that. Silly alpha.

 

“-But not right now, not for a while at least, okay?” Jeonghan nodded, savouring the slow drag of the alpha’s cock being pulled out. The omega’s previously softening member gradually rose back to life.

 

Seungcheol was possibly the best husband ever, and Jeonghan won’t be entertaining any opinion to the contrary. He circled his arms around the alpha’s torso, as the later braced himself on his elbows planted on either side of the omega’s head. The firm muscles moving under his grasp adding another layer of stimulation for Jeonghan.

 

It was slow, a usual occurrence. They always made love, it was never just sex for them. They’ll leave the mindless fucking for heats and ruts, or so the alpha had insisted, but Jeonghan doubted if his husband would truly ever completely give into his instincts.

 

Seungcheol was taking full advantage of the situation, lips finding their way over every inch of skin they could reach without having him pull out completely from Jeonghan. But that just wouldn’t do. The whole point of Jeonghan suggesting sex was to tire Seungcheol out to make him sleep. Not for him to drag this out till midnight.

 

With purpose, Jeonghan clenched down hard on the alpha’s dick, the resulting friction drawing out a groan from both of them.  Grabbing a fistful of Seungcheol’s hair, the omega pulled him up from his chest for an open mouthed kiss, conveying his need to climax. Yet, the hard thrust surprised him the first time. He gasped into the older’s mouth. A high pitched whine would leave his mouth with each consequent thrust. Every single one hitting his prostate without fail. He wanted to scream his love for the alpha, but his tongue was currently engaged in a battle with Seungcheol’s.

 

Pinned under the alpha, Jeonghan didn’t get much leeway for movement when his orgasm eventually came cascading down on him, so he tightened his arms, and legs around Seungcheol,  doing his best keep the latter in him.

 

The pleasure came in waves, much less intense than his previous ones. Or so he thought until he realised that Seungcheol had finished in him, after he came down from his high to the alpha rubbing circles on his waist.

 

“You okay?” Seungcheol asked, kissing away a few tears that managed to escape when Jeonghan opened his eyes. His answer was to pull the alpha into a hug. The omega pressed his lips to his husband’s hair for being so precious. His alpha was really cute.

 

No time to bask in the afterglow, Jeonghan rushed the alpha to get cleaned up. He turned down Seungcheol’s help, and cleaned himself up, but only after sending the older off to bed. Which in and of itself was an ordeal, but a few well-meaning glares did the trick, and his husband was tucked in with much grumbling.

 

By the time Jeonghan came to bed, the alpha was already fast asleep. The chubby cheeks really did make him look like the squishiest bun. Smiling to himself at the thought, Jeonghan fondly ran a hand through Seungcheol’s hair, before curling up behind him.

 

Kissing the clearly visible mole on the back of Seungcheol’s neck, Jeonghan nosed at the nape, drinking in the scent to settle in for a peaceful night. He threw a hand over the alpha’s middle to draw him as close as possible. One more kiss, and a whispered ‘Goodnight hubby~’ later, Jeonghan was off to dreamland.

 

Peace didn’t come easily for him. Again, he was haunted by the nightmare from the previous night. The one where he woke up to find Minsoo as his husband, holding him down. The thought alone was enough to make him nauseous.

 

Jolting awake, Jeonghan took a few shaky breathes to calm himself down. A tremble ran through him, as he hoisted himself up on his elbow to check that the body next to him was indeed Seungcheol. Even after confirmation he couldn’t stop the shudders that passed through him. Jeonghan shuffled closer to the alpha for warmth and assurance. Dreams and reality were starting to get mixed up.

 

Maybe it was the restless fidgeting, or his sporadic tremors, but somehow he roused Seungcheol from his slumber. An apology was at the tip of his tongue when the alpha turned him around without a word, and proceeded to spoon him. Was he still asleep? But the arm around his middle was firm. Neither spoke, Jeonghan, waiting for the other to speak first, but the words didn’t come. Soon after he started to nod off, holding on tightly to Seungcheol’s arm as his anchor.

 

 

 

Jeonghan woke up to the feeling of something soft brush over his eyelids. Sleep yet to release its hold on him, the omega simply turned his head to the side. He could swear that he heard a muffled chuckle as sleep took over him once again.

 

The next time he woke up, he was surprised with breakfast in bed, and a fully clothed Seungcheol ready for work. It almost had Jeonghan scrambling out of bed, till the alpha assured him that he had ample time to get ready. He wiped a fake tear at the sufficiently prepared lunch box.

 

They grow up so fast.

 

“Are you aiming for the husband of the year award, Cheollie?” he playfully poked the alpha in the ribs.

 

“Even if I was, I’ll only get the second prize cuz my husband is the no.1 husband in the world.” He smacked Seungcheol on the butt for that. He was not awake enough for this.

 

 

 

That evening, Jeonghan found himself in a conference room with Seungcheol, surrounded by some of the staff, and, to his immense surprise, the couple’s friends. Was this why the two other omega’s rushed off as soon as class was done with? To doll up for their boys? Jeonghan shook his head. Wonwoo’s and Jun’s presence were an eyebrow raiser. You could rarely get them away from their shops. And in a way it was pleasant to see Minghao and Chan again, it had been too long.

 

Their upcoming wedding was what was on the agenda. He almost succeeded in sneaking in next to Jisoo, but Seungcheol caught him and pulled the omega beside him. He really did not want the attention. The amount of respect the employees had for Jeonghan was also starting to creep him out. It felt misplaced.

 

The alpha tried to get Jeonghan to sit in his chair, but the latter pushed his mate into it, and stopped Ms. Lee from rushing to find him a chair, opting to stand instead like most of their friends. Jihoon and a very embarrassed Jisoo being the only ones in their friend group to be sitting down. It was written all over the younger omega’s face that Dokyeom had gotten the chair for him. Jeonghan cackled to himself.

 

Seungcheol cleared his throat, “So, you all know why we’re here?” Various heads nodded. “For anyone that’s still unclear on the subject matter, we,” the alpha gestured to the both of them, “Are having a wedding party next Saturday, and I wanted to invite all of our employees-” Applause and cheers broke out from the mere mention of a party from the more, from what he assumed, rambunctious of the gathered. Soonyoung appeared to be leading the rowdy bunch.

 

With a simple glare, Seungcheol had them hushed. Gaze fixed on the over excited ones, Seungcheol continued, “As I was saying, what do you guys think about me giving an off to everyone for those two days?”

 

“Th-that, will that be okay?” one of the employees spoke up. The others could barely contain their glee.

 

“I don’t see why not. Besides, I feel a bit guilty staying home every weekend.” Jeonghan also felt a little guilty about that.

 

“Don’t worry so much, boss. We’re just glad you’re not spending your nights at the company anymore,” Ms. Lee assured him, while the rest nodded. His alpha must have been quite the handful.

 

Jeonghan moved behind his mate’s chair, leaning on the back of the chair, hands on the alpha’s shoulders, resting his weight. He zoned out as Seungcheol instructed his staff on the upcoming day offs, and grabbing possible business opportunities, because according to Jeongyeon, networking was one of the main agendas. She had mailed the list of attendees to Seungcheol, and his husband was briefing the less party driven members of his staff on whom to focus on.

 

Completely bored with the topic, Jeonghan lost himself in playing with his husband’s hair. A mistake on his part, his absentmindedness led to him being pulled on to the alpha’s lap. To his relief, only their friends were left, and his usual vultures were busy with their own troublesome counterparts. Jeonghan tried to slip out of his current seating, and in to the closest chair to their left, but it was fruitless. Curse his husband and his completely unnecessary strength.

 

Harnessing the power of tickles, Jeonghan wrested free, and secured his own chair. He tried to roll the chair away from his husband, but the alpha’s hands shot out like whip grabbing a hold of the armrest. The yelp of fear that the omega had let out, hushed the chatter in the room, all set of eyes focused on them.

 

“Ah…ha…ha… So, what are you all doing here?” Jeonghan straightened out his polo, brushing over his little scream like it never happened.

 

“Our accommodations…” Wonwoo reminded.

 

Yes, they had talked about it on the phone the previous day. Wonwoo needed to know in advance in order to decide what to do with the bookshop. Seungcheol must’ve called them all here for that.

 

“Yes, thank you, Wonwoo.” Seungcheol took it from there, “So, what are you guys planning to do? Getting there on the morning of the party, or the previous night? We’re already going to be booking a pension near to the hotel for our neighbors, and Hyunseung hyung. It won’t make much difference to get a few rooms for you guys as well.”

 

“We would like a room, please~” Soonyoung waved his hand wildly in the air, “I don’t wanna rush in the morning. It’ll tire Hoonie out.” Jihoon made no objection to that.

 

“Okay, anybody else?”

 

“I’ll choose Friday as well,” Jun spoke up, shrugging, “Mom has already threatened me out of my duties for the weekend. Do you wanna come with me, Hao? It’ll be like a date,” the alpha wiggled his eyebrows.

 

“Sure, only if I’m driving.” Jun deflated at the beta’s response.

 

Ah, seems like Minghao is already well acquainted with Jun’s driving skills.

 

Jeonghan shared a collective shudder with the other omegas, them too no doubt recollecting the terror inducing memory of their first ride with Jun after he got his driver’s license.

 

“I wanna stay the night there as well, but work,” Mingyu sounded discouraged, “Seems like I’ll miss out on a lot of fun.”

 

“You can still go. The trains will still be running, or you could drive,” Seungcheol suggested, “And it’s not like there’ll be any celebrations that night, you can just arrive and go straight to sleep. Rooms will be arranged according to your preferences.”

 

“I wanna go too,” Dokyeom spoke up. “Me too,” Chan followed, “Are you also going on Friday, Wonwoo hyung?”

 

“Yes, I would prefer to, but I’ll have to wait till its closing time.” Soonyoung’s head snapped in the beta’s direction. He was planning something.

 

“Vernon?” Seungcheol prodded.

 

“I’m fine with the day before.”

 

“What about you two?” Seungcheol directed his gaze to the two omegas, who in turn turned to Jeonghan.

 

“Will you guys be staying there as well?” Jisoo asked.

 

“Of course,” Seungcheol beat him to the answer, “We’ll settle you in according to your comfort.” It was warming to see how much Seungcheol cared for Jeonghan’s friends, especially the omegas.

 

“Okay, then we’re in,” Jisoo nodded.

 

“Now that accommodation and date is set, how are you guys planning on getting there? We know that Hao and Jun are driving?” Seungcheol tilted his head at the couple in question.

 

Minghao nodded, “Since Jun’s schedule is clear, we’ll leave before noon. Anybody wanna join us?”

 

“We’ll leave early too,” Soonyoung glanced at Jihoon, “That way we can reach there before it gets late, even with all the puke stops we’ll have to take.”

 

“Ya! Soonyoung-ah! I don’t puke,” Jihoon huffed. His husband paid him no mind. Jihoon folded his arm in front of his chest and sulked.

 

“W-what about you guys?” Jisoo asked, taking a quick peak at Dokyeom.

 

You’re so cute, Shua!

 

A plan immediately began to form in his head. “Unfortunately, we’ll be taking the train. Jeongyeon wants us to leave for Japan that night itself, so that we’ll get more time for our honeymoon.”

 

“We can take you guys, Shua hyung,” Jun offered. A nice gesture, but completely unwanted.

 

“But hyung, we can’t leave till evening,” Seungkwan came to save the day, unintentionally.

 

“If it’s no bother to you, I don’t mind driving you both to Daejeon,” Dokyeom piped up.

 

YESS!!!

 

This was the outcome that the omega had hoped for. Now if only he could somehow add Hansol in the mix. Jeonghan nudged his alpha with his thigh, and pointed his chin at the young alpha.

 

“A-ah, Hansollie, what about you and Chan? You got your driver’s licence didn’t you, Chan?”

 

“I’m not confident enough for such a long drive, so…” Chan trailed off, hoping that one of others would offer to take him.

 

“You can come with me, but it’ll be late,” Mingyu scrolled through his phone, most probably looking through his schedule.

 

“What about Hansol?” Seungcheol asked again

 

“He’s obviously coming with us,” Dokyeom rolled his eyes, “His boyfriend is with us.” Said boyfriend was going through wide variety of emotions, ranging from gratitude to murderous. The victim of several short lived relationships, Seungkwan didn’t want to jinx it, and thus had refrained from claiming Hansol as his boyfriend in public.

 

“That leaves Chan aaannd Wonwoo?”

 

“Well, I’ve got Mingyu hyung.”

 

“You can take Wonwoo along with you as well,” Soonyoung pointed out.

 

Soonyoung, you brilliant child.

 

“Yes, why don’t you go with them as well, Wonwoo?” Jeonghan suggested, fully expecting the displeased glare sent his way. From the side, Jisoo flashed him a thumbs up. They wouldn’t be friends if he hadn’t thought of the same.

 

“Hmm…” Wonwoo hummed noncommittedly.

 

“C’mon, you’re leaving late as well. Won’t it be better to have some company along the way?” Jeonghan put his best into coming off as a concerned older brother, because he was concerned. He didn’t want Wonwoo to be driving alone that late, nor does he want the beta to be taking the train alone at such late hours as well.

 

“I’ll only make them even more late. The shop closes at nine,” Wonwoo countered.

 

“We don’t mind,” Mingyu replied, “Do we?” the alpha tilted his head at Chan, trying his best to not show his anticipation. Although, the hands picking at his tie was a dead giveaway.

 

“I’m fine with it. Besides, you two have similar interests, I think we’ll all find this experience enriching,” Chan brought his hands together, clearly excited for the trip.

 

“Th-“

 

“Okay, now that’s over with,” Soonyoung interrupted Seungcheol before he could even get a word out, “What do you guys think about having a sleepover?”

 

“Pass,” Wonwoo didn’t even take the time to think. He got up to leave as the important matters were over and done with. Soonyoung pulled him back into his seat by the back of the beta’s polo, “Stay right there, you’re not leaving without a tour of the building like I promised.” Curiosity won over, as Wonwoo leaned back in his chair with a suffering sigh.

 

“Uhm… is it going to be at your house, hyung?” Dokyeom asked, eyes darting to Jihoon as well.

 

“Of course not. It’s at Seungcheol hyung’s,” Soonyoung replied cheerfully.

 

“Now wait just a minute,” Seungcheol sat straighter, “I don’t remember ever talking about this,” his eyes were blown wide, “Like never.” Jeonghan thought it cute.

 

He looks like a goldfish!................ I need help….

 

Forcing himself to stop comparing his husband to every animal possible, Jeonghan inserted himself into the conversation before Seungcheol started nagging.

 

“What brought this on, Soonyoung?”

 

“Jihoon has been wanting to have a meal together with everyone,” he gestured to the room, “And we’re gonna have to get closer, since the grooms’ families can’t be awkward with each other at the party now can we?”

 

“It’s for Jihoon hyung, isn’t it?” Minghao deadpanned.

 

“Yes, but can you say no to this adorable face?” Soonyoung squished his husband’s face between his palms. Jeonghan internally cooed.

 

Next to him, Seungcheol chuckled, “It looks like you already got Jeonghan on your side.” The omega gave a small punch to his bicep, flustered at being caught red handed. Seungcheol caught Jeonghan’s fist in his, once again reminding the omega of the alpha’s completely unnecessary strength. So, he surrendered, letting his husband do with his hand as he pleased. Seungcheol promptly intertwined their fingers.

 

Noticing that things were starting to get a little weird between them, Jeonghan brought their attention back to the sleepover, “I don’t mind hosting a sleepover, even if it’s only you two, but we’re going to Daegu on Saturday. The in-laws are planning to meet.”

 

“But you’ll come back in the evening right?” Soonyoung asked hopefully.

 

“Yes, but food-“

 

“You don’t have to worry about that, Jeonghannie hyung, we’ll take care of it,” he replied in earnest.

 

“Does anybody else want to come?” Seungcheol addressed the rest.

 

“You turn fast,” Chan commented.

 

“Ah Channie, I’m powerless against Jeonghan,” Seungcheol shrugged, while the younger alpha shook his head in disapproval at how far his hyungs had fallen.

 

Jeonghan studied his friends as everyone thought it over. It was obvious from the darting eyes who wanted to attend the sleepover.

 

“You guys are coming right?” Jeonghan questioned the omegas. They so obviously wanted to be there if the hurried nods were anything to go by. With their confirmation, Dokyeom and Hansol also seemed to have made up their minds.

 

The way Jeonghan saw it, Wonwoo would be the only one who really needed convincing, and he was proven right when slowly everyone gave their assent while the beta tried to fade into his seat with each passing moment. A task that proved difficult when you had everyone’s eyes on you.

 

Wonwoo sighed and adjusted his glasses, “Fine, I’ll come over once I close the shop,” he grumbled, but he smiled when Jisoo and Seungkwan beamed at him.

 

“Sweet!” Soonyoung fist pumped, “Okay now everyone can leave.”

 

Seungcheol blinked, “Don’t we have to talk about the sleeping arrangements, and such, cause we have only two beds,” his eyebrows furrowed.

 

Waving away the older alpha’s concerns, Soonyoung was already out the door, dragging Wonwoo and Chan with him, but not without leaving a small kiss on Jihoon’s forehead, “We’ll mince out the details through texts.” That was the cue for the others to drift off to their own duties. Jisoo and Seungkwan bid them a goodnight as they left for home. Their respective partners walking them out. Jun used the opportunity to take Minghao out on a pseudo date at his restaurant, and Mingyu returned to his work.

 

Seungcheol walked back to his office, and Jeonghan and Jihoon trailed after him.

 

“You two really,” Seungcheol began as he pushed open the door to his office, “My office is not a tea room. You can’t just lay out a dozen variety of snacks, and sit around chatting, I’ll get distracted.”

 

“Don’t lie, the only thing distracting you is Jeonghan hyung. If it were just me you would’ve ignored me completely,” Jihoon left no room for argument, pushing past the couple and making himself comfortable on the couch. Soon Ms. Lee will come knocking with a tray full of little treats, and a cup of warm tea. Did Jihoon tell her beforehand, or was she doing this of he own volition? Jeonghan had no clue.

 

Curled up on one of the arm chairs, Jeonghan pulled out a book, picking up from where he last left off. It was usual for Jihoon to nap after he had his fill, he was already starting to doze off. Seungcheol had already returned to his work. Determined to finish early, so that he could take the omega home.

 

Probably wanted to get me in bed again.

 

Seungcheol’s eyes spoke of many unspeakable things when he looked at him, thick black pools of lust. Jeonghan briefly wondered what he had done to set the older off. Was his scent driving his alpha crazy? It would explain why the alpha kept sniffing him every opportunity he could get away with it.

 

Whatever the reason, Jeonghan could confidently look forward to another long, pleasure filled night.

 

But do I want that?

 

Jeonghan’s heart dropped. That couldn’t be true. On a normal day, he would be aching with want at the mere glimpse of the alpha’s body. Was there something wrong with him? Was he getting tired of sex so soon? Wasn’t that supposed to come only after his heat passed? He thought to the previous night, them in bed, him on his back, and Seungcheol’s face scrunched as he focused on prepping the omega, his well-built body hovering over the younger. He was relieved as he recognized the familiar sparks of arousal being lit deep in him. He really would’ve hated having to say no to his husband.

 

A frown found itself slowly starting to form at that last thought, because at the end of it all, it didn’t really matter. Seungcheol would be more disappointed if Jeonghan didn’t say no. Jeonghan didn’t want to disappoint him either way.

 

Jeonghan took a quick glance at the alpha out of the corner of his eyes. Seungcheol caught him staring, he turned away quickly, too quickly to play it off. The omega blushed, both at being caught and from the older’s heavy gaze. Squirming in his seat, Jeonghan crossed his legs, trying to squash the blazing arousal mounting up inside him. It would’ve been easy if not for the lecherous stare trailing over his legs.

 

Did the man know no shame? It was like he was deriving pleasure from watching Jeonghan in disarray. Thank heavens that Jihoon had fallen asleep. Otherwise it would’ve been appalling. He needed to cover himself up somehow.

 

Not thinking twice about it, Jeonghan stood up and made his way to the alpha, whose eyes were still locked on him.

 

“The jacket,” Jeonghan’s voice was a bit scratchy.

 

“Hm?” the alpha raised one of his thick eyebrows at him.

 

“Give me your jacket,” Jeonghan demanded, holding his hand out.

 

“Whatever for?” the alpha questioned even as he took the jacket off.

 

“To cover myself from your perverted gaze!” he whisper screamed, poking a finger into the alpha’s chest.

 

“I’m sorry, precious,” Seungcheol said, not sounding sorry at all.

 

Jacket in hand, Jeonghan rolled his eyes, pinching the alpha’s nipple as punishment, and returned to his previous seat. Laying the jacket over his lap, he curled up in the armchair, tucking his feet in under it as well. Didn’t want his husband to glimpse any part of his legs, lest he got a hard on at work, then they’ll have even bigger problems to deal with. He faintly heard Seungcheol chuckling, but paid him no mind for the time being.

 

Safe from those lust filled eyes, Jeonghan was able to finish his book in peace and quiet. Until Soonyoung happened. Sweeping up his sleeping mate in his arms, the alpha exited with all the flurry of a passing storm. Amazing that Jihoon hadn’t woken up, what with how noisy his entrance was. Jeonghan almost jumped out of the chair. He didn’t even get the chance to ask about Wonwoo.

 

The remaining two shared a glance after the younger couple left.

 

“Well, that was… something,” Jeonghan found himself lost for words.

 

“Yeah, we should probably leave too. It’s getting late,” Seungcheol started arranging the documents on his desk into neat piles. Jeonghan made himself busy picking up their stuff, “Ready?” he asked, both their bags and Seungcheol’s jacket in hand, which he extended to the alpha to take back. Instead his husband took it and draped it over the omega’s shoulders, “Looks cute,” was his only comment.

 

Too late to make dinner at home, they decided to eat out. During the dinner Seungcheol had asked him whether he was a fan of fancy dinner dates. It had its merits, but Jeonghan liked the cozy vibes all their dates had, however rare they were.

 

“Why? Are you planning on taking me to some fancy restaurant?” Jeonghan asked, eyeing his husband curiously.

 

“Not really. It’s just what I’m used to doing, you know, for my previous partners. I mean we’re way past dating, but I don’t want to skimp out on all that stuff just because we’re married.”

 

“But baby, I consider all our movie nights and game nights as date nights.” Seungcheol smiled a bit before returning to pouting. Jeonghan reached over and pinched his cheeks.

 

“Silly alpha. This is also a date in my diary,” he informed the older, “You don’t have to take me on glamorized dates, and I’m perfectly okay with cuddling on the couch and calling it a day. I love you so much. I love being with you.”

 

His confession led to them huddled under the blanket, him on Seungcheol’s lap with alpha’s arms around him gripping on to a controller, finishing the game that they started few nights ago. Jeonghan had assumed that his night was definitely on a different track. Clearly he had miscalculated.

 

While he would’ve preferred to be surrounded by his alpha’s arms in a completely different sense, the innocent joy on Seungcheol’s face every time their eyes met, after every jumpscare that would cause the older to flinch without fail, was endearing.

 

“Are you sure this is enough for you?” Seungcheol asked as he switched off the TV.

 

“Yep, every moment we spend together is special for me.”

 

“You say that now, but wait a few years.”

 

Jeonghan shrugged, “We can still plan something special for important days like anniversaries and birthdays.” Seungcheol fast walked into their bedroom as Jeonghan switched off the lights in the living area. Not having paid much attention during the game, the omega had missed much of the scary scenes.

 

Once settled under the safety of their covers, Seungcheol spoke up again, “Do you even remember the date we met?”

 

“……..No. Do you remember the date of our marriage?”

 

Truly they were meant for each other for neither of them had a clue.

 

“Well, thankfully we have it on the marriage certificate,” Seungcheol half-heartedly chuckled, and then they both startled at the unexpected lightning and thunder

 

That night Jeonghan had a handful of scared alpha curled up against his chest, grumbling all the while about how long armed men were going to snatch them up. No more horror games for him, Jeonghan decided.

 

“Don’t be scared okay, Hannie? I’ll protect you,” his husband had declared quite lovingly, all the while jolting from the sporadic roars of thunder. Jeonghan ran his hand through the alpha’s hair, humming an old tune his mother used to sing to him, till Seungcheol was sound asleep. Grounded under the older’s weight, Jeonghan trusted him to keep the nightmares away.

 

~~~~~~~~

 

Blinking awake, Seungcheol immediately made note of the weight leaning against his head.

 

Did Jeonghan fall asleep?

 

Wouldn’t be a surprise considering how late into the night it got while they discussed the sleepover with everyone. Much to Seungcheol’s relief they didn’t have to prepare anything, the others had offered to bring the extra beds and sleeping bags. He might’ve subtly warned them not to burden Jeonghan with anything, not even cooking. Even though the latter might be a tall order to make. His omega was very excited for this.

 

Extracting himself from his current spot as quietly as possible, Seungcheol rearranged their position so that Jeonghan was resting his head on the alpha’s shoulder.

 

Sad that they had to leave for Daegu, they might’ve gotten to spend more time with their friends otherwise. Honestly, he couldn’t tell if that was a good thing or not. Seungcheol sighed as he watched the trees pass by.

 

Those guys are a handful.

 

He couldn’t go back to sleep. Jeonghan had taken it on himself to stay awake so that they won’t miss their stop, a task he clearly failed to carry out. As such, Seungcheol, being the best husband according to his mate, would take up the mantle.

 

Jeonghan shifted beside him, mumbling something about tacos. Seungcheol was more focused on the tiny bit of tongue visible between the omega’s slightly parted lips. Strawberry jelly was what it reminded him off. Seungcheol quickly turned his glance to the window, before the temptation to touch his mate’s tongue overcame him.

 

I wonder how Jeongyeon’s doing…

 

 

 

“Oh! Thank God! You’re here!” Jeongyeon’s relieved declaration snatched the couple’s attention away from the rose bushes. It couldn’t have possibly been that bad. The two of them shared a look of concern. Were their families that awkward?

 

“They’re going through both of yours’ entire life stories and if I have to hear one more story about Jeonghan’s younger years as a promising supervillain, or Seungcheol oppa’s childhood comeuppance as a professional fighter, I’m gonna loose it,” she shook Jeonghan by his shoulders in a way only the younger sister of a supervillain could, menacingly. The omega gawked at her, horrified.

 

Seungcheol wasn’t surprised at all, in fact he expected it, and had appropriately prepared himself for the subsequent mortification. The photos and home movies will probably start to make their rounds soon.

 

“This is the worst day of my life,” Jeonghan wheezed, still in his sister’s hold.

 

“Yeah, and you need to get in there before she starts telling stories about how I puked over the President’s shoes that one time. You can smell the roses later,” she tried to usher a firmly rooted Jeonghan inside. Truthfully Seungcheol would like to hear the ‘President puke’ story. That sounded like a great story.

 

“Cheol!” Jeonghan grabbed onto his arm, “We’ve got to get out of here!” he pleaded.

 

“Ah-huh…”

 

“You promised,” he pouted. If he pushed for a bit more Seungcheol would’ve given into the pouty lips, puffed up cheeks, and those big, round, twinkling eyes.

 

“Baby,” Seungcheol took the omega’s face between his palms, “You’re the single most precious thing I have ever laid eyes on, but you know we can’t just leave.” Jeonghan blushed, and then sulked. Chuckling, the alpha swooped in for a quick peck on those pink lips.

 

“Okay, you guys are being really cute, but can we do this later, you know like after we stop her from giving a presentation on our entire life,” her mouth stretched out in a thoroughly unimpressed line.

 

“Don’t worry, my Mom will offer up my brother on the pyre before your mother can even start,” he walked to the front door dragging Jeonghan with him, “Even worse, she’ll take out the albums.”

 

Jeongyeon opened the front door and led them to the dining room were the rest of their family were seated. Kkumma ran to them as soon as she spotted them, jumping circles around them asking to be picked up.

 

Jeonghan obliged, giving her a few pets before passing the puppy off to Seungcheol. “Hey there Kkumma! Did you miss me, baby girl?” the alpha rubbed his head against hers, while she tried to kiss him.

 

“Where’s Sohee?” Jeonghan asked, scanning the room for his biggest fan.

 

“What are we? Potatoes?” Hyunseung grumbled, “Not even a hello. Seungcheol’s been a bad influence on yo- oof!” Chanhee elbowed him in the ribs.

 

“Oh, hello everyone ha ha…,” Jeonghan scratched the back of his neck.

 

“She’s still asleep, although I bet she’ll be up and at’em if her favourite person were to wake her up,” Chanhee winked at Jeonghan.

 

“Oh it’s fine. We don’t have to wake her up on my accord,” the omega protested.

 

Waving away his concerns, Chanhee motioned for him to follow her, “It’s just about time to wake her up anyway.”

 

“If you say so. I’ll be back, Mom. Hmm… Moms?” he frowned, “Mom, Dad, Mama Choi, Papa Choi,” he bowed to them as he left.

 

“Hurry back Hannie, I was just about to tell them the story about your sister puking on the President,” Mama Yoon called out cheerfully. Next to him, Jeongyeon groaned, face hidden in her hands. Ignoring her, the mother chirped on, “We have pictures taken right after the incident, I’ll show it to you when you come for the wedding.”

 

“Now that sounds like a great story,” Hyunseung leaned forward on the couch.

 

“Yes, yes… speaking of pictures, would you like to see photos of baby Seungcheol? I forgot to show them to Jeonghan last time. We can go through the old albums together,” his Mom responded excitedly. It was the brothers’ time to groan. “I wonder if he would like to take a few of your pictures with him back home?” she turned to him.

 

“I’m sure Jeonghan will like that, but didn’t you say you have a lot to prepare for lunch?”

 

Yes, he was trying to distract her.

 

“Oh my god! Thank goodness you reminded me,” she jumped out of her chair to race for the kitchen.

 

Hyunseung gave him a thumbs up.

 

“Ah, don’t worry I’ll help out as well,” Mama Yoon also rose from her chair, “Since we are responsible for all the meat.”

 

“You guys brought meat?” Seungcheol asked his mother-in-law.

 

“Of course dear, we can’t visit empty handed,” patted his arm, “We have to show our gratitude for bringing such an incredible son into this world.”

 

“Oh Mrs. Yoon, then we should be the ones showing the courtesy. Jeonghan is a gem,” his mother replied jovially. Clearly, they were competing on who had the better son-in-law. Seungcheol slowly distanced himself from the two women, bumping into his older brother.

 

“They seem to be getting along well,” Hyunseung stated, watching the two mothers conversing excitedly with each other.

 

“Probably bonding over our childhood misdeeds,” Jeongyeon popped up next to them, “Anyways, wanna go watch my Dad scare Sohee?”

 

Seungcheol turned to look at their fathers’ making awkward small talk. Both of them seemed about as harmful as a ball of cotton.

 

“He doesn’t seem that scary,” Hyunseung observed.

 

“Right? But for some reason all kids under the age of eight is just downright scared of him, or at the very least wary of him. Jeonghan oppa is the only baby ever that took to Dad from the get go. Even I refused to be held by him till I was like two,” she lowered her volume, “Don’t tell him, but apparently, Dad cried the first time oppa smiled at him.”

 

Seungcheol would cry too if Jeonghan smiled at him, but that was because he was crazy and needed help. His chest was about to combust from imagining a smiley baby Jeonghan. Much too cute to handle.

 

“You know, this is why your parents tell everyone about you puking on the President.”

 

She gasped, “Seungcheol oppa, are you implying that my father is taking revenge on me for not letting him hold me when I was a baby?”

 

“No, it’s because you go around blabbing about your Dad crying,” Seungcheol stated matter-of-factly.

 

She shrugged, “That’s probably true.”

 

“So, is Jeonghan the favorite then?” Hyunseung wanted to know.

 

“It’s complicated, but I do know that Dad has a photo of baby Jeonghan in his wallet, and of me, but only the one after I turned two. He’s so childish, isn’t he? Well, it was the only time he could take a photo with me, so that could also be why….”

 

 Seungcheol didn’t wait for her to finish. He powerwalked to where their fathers were sitting.

 

“Dad do you have a picture of baby Jeonghan with you?” he addressed Jeonghan’s father.

 

The man’s faced lighted up, “Why of course,” he reached into his pocket to retrieve his wallet. Seungcheol waited with bated breath.

 

“He was quite a cute baby,” the man handed the photo to him.

 

“He’s still adorable,” Seungcheol mumbled absently, taking the picture in his hands.

 

And there sat his mate as a baby on Papa Yoon’s lap, all gummy smiles and round wide eyes, staring up at the camera. The small beanie with the bear ears bumped the cuteness up a notch.

 

“Oh god,” he whispered almost reverently, “That’s so fucking adorable.” Their plan to try for a baby Jeonghan’s next heat was appealing to him more and more the longer he stared at the photo. Their babies are going to be so pretty.

 

Those chubby little cheeks!

 

“Look who’s here, Cheol!” Jeonghan exclaimed, carrying a still sleepy Sohee in his arms.

 

“If it isn’t my favorite niece!” he gasped in wonder, handing the photo to Jeonghan in exchange for Sohee. The young alpha rubbed her eyes, trying to get her bearings straight. “Are you still sleepy, baby?” She nodded, laying her head on Seungcheol’s shoulder, about to fall asleep again. Her mother snatched her away before that could happen, claiming that breakfast will wake her up.

 

Returning his attention to his husband, he found the omega dragging their fathers out to the hallway to show them Seungcheol’s baby pictures, while Hyunseung and Jeongyeon were rifling through one of the old photo albums.

 

Seungcheol, obviously, set course for Jeonghan. The omega was showing Papa Yoon the picture of baby Seungcheol holding a flower.

 

“It’s the exact same picture, right Dad?”

 

“It’s not an exact copy, but yes, it does look similar.” Jeonghan nodded and immediately started grilling Seungcheol’s father about more details regarding the photo, and he was elated to find that they were about the same age when the picture was snapped.

 

“I really want to take this home with us. Do you think Mama Choi will let me?” the omega asked Seungcheol.

 

“Mom was more than happy to let you have it, in fact, she has some more for you to look at.”

 

“Really! Aw that’s so sweet of her. Where is she?”

 

“She’s in the kitchen with your Mom. Getting everything ready for lunch,” Seungcheol informed the omega.

 

“Why didn’t you say so earlier? We have to go help them,” Jeonghan dragged him to the kitchen not waiting for a reply. He barely had enough time to shove the pictures into his father’s hands.

 

“Moms, anything we can help with?” Jeonghan called out as soon as they entered the kitchen. Sohee was having her breakfast on the island, made grabby hands at the omega. “Eat first, Sohee,” Chanhee chided softly.

 

Seungcheol’s mother looked thoughtful, “Hmm, we definitely need help with grilling the meat-“

 

“I’ll do it!” Jeonghan volunteered without hesitation.

 

“That’s sweet of you, darling,” Mama Yoon smiled pleasantly, “But that’s for later.”

 

“Then I’ll set up the grill.”

 

“No you won’t, Hannie. I’ll set up the grill,” Seungcheol pushed his mate down on to a chair. As if he’ll ever let Jeonghan do any grunt work.

 

“No need, Seungcheol. Your father’s already got it.”

 

Unsatisfied with the inactivity, Jeonghan squirmed in his seat, “Then why don’t I help you two with the vegetables?”

 

“Relax sweetie, Seungcheol will help me with that.”

 

“I will?”

 

“Yes.”

 

“Well…” there wasn’t much else to be said about it. He plopped down on to the seat next to Jeonghan, ready to tackle his task. His mother graciously supplied him with a knife and a cutting board.

 

“Do you need any help, Cheol?” Clearly, sitting still was becoming more and more difficult for his husband. In any case, declining was his only option. His mother could be scary if she wanted to be, and Seungcheol did not want to be scolded in front of his omega.

 

While Seungcheol chopped away, Jeonghan fidgeted in his place, sometimes leaning against him, and at other times playing with Kkumma whenever she pawed at his feet for attention. Thankfully Sohee rushed the omega and the puppy out to play with her. Jeonghan was reluctant to leave all the work to the rest of them, but he was helpless in front of Sohee.

 

“Why does that child want to work so much?” his mother pondered.

 

“Mom, he’s trying to make a good impression on you,” Seungcheol rolled his eyes. It was so obvious.

 

“Don’t bad mouth your husband, Seungcheol.” Of course, only he would get scowled at for telling the truth. By the way Mama Yoon’s lips quirked up, he supposed that she knew it as well. He shook his head and went back to chopping.

 

The hours passed by in a blur. Outside, he could see, the two patriarchs setting up the grill, and hear Sohee’s shrill laughter. If he strained his neck a bit, he could catch a view of Jeonghan running all over the yard with his niece in his arms while chasing Kkumma around, or being chased by the puppy.

 

Hyunseung, Chanhee, and Jeongyeon sat at the island with their own set of vegetables to peel and cut. Jeongyeon had the smallest pile as she was, according to her mother, laughably bad at cooking.

 

“Be careful, Hannie!” he called out when he caught the omega stumbling. Jeonghan waved back to reassure him. Two immature alphas sitting with him fake gagged.

 

Once it was time to grill the meat, finished with his assigned task, Seungcheol volunteered to retrieve Jeonghan and his niece from the barn. He hadn’t fully stepped outside when a shrieking Jeonghan almost barreled him over. The omega blithered on about something being disgusting while shoving Sohee and Kkumma into Seungcheol’s arms. If he hadn’t been worried about his distressed omega, he would’ve awed at how comfortable their puppy was with dangling from Jeonghan’s arms. Even Seungcheol wasn’t able to hold her like that. She must’ve been shocked into compliance by his omega’s outburst.

 

Quickly passing the two troublemakers on to Chanhee, Seungcheol grabbed Jeonghan’s shoulders to steady him, “Baby, slow down and take a deep breath.”

 

Jeonghan held on to the alpha’s wrist as he took several deep breathes. Seungcheol wasn’t expecting him to listen.

 

“Okay, now tell me what happened?” The commotion had brought everyone to the backyard.

 

“T-there was a centipede and it was so big. As big as my forearm! It crawled over my shoes! I kicked it away but then it slinked back to me in supersonic speed and Sohee and Kkumma was curious and they were going near it and I snatched them up and ran cuz it was going to bite us and we were all going to die,” the words cascaded out of the omega’s mouth, not pausing to breathe. He looked like he was about to cry.

 

Seungcheol wrapped his arms around the distressed omega. Jeonghan wouldn’t stop shaking, and it was starting to make Seungcheol anxious. He released just enough pheromones to soothe the shivers.

 

Seeing that Seungcheol had everything handled, everyone else returned to whatever it was that they were doing. Although, Jeongyeon lingered at the backdoor. For all that they bickered, she really loved her brother so much.

 

Jeonghan was now settled in his embrace, resting his head on the alpha’s shoulders. Seungcheol gently swayed them back and forth, dropping a few kisses in the omega’s hair here and there. His mother returned with a glass of water, and didn’t leave until it was emptied.

 

“Wanna go help Dad out with the grilling?” Seungcheol spoke up after a few minutes had passed.

 

Humming his ascent, Jeonghan pulled away from the alpha’s hold and gave him a tiny smile. Seungcheol pinched his husband’s cheek, softly, and returned the smile.

 

“Didn’t know you were that scared of centipedes, bunny,” Seungcheol stated as he lead Jeonghan to the grills.

 

It was Papa Yoon who answered, “He’s been scared of them since he was like six or seven. He was messing around in the back shed and stumbled upon some centipedes while picking up cans. We don’t know if he got bitten or not, but he wouldn’t stop crying till eventually he fainted from exhaustion. Well it was more like screaming. I have never heard him cry that loud before nor after that incident.”

 

“Even I don’t remember if I got bitten or not. All I remember is those things crawling all over me with their tiny, horrifying, little feet,” the omega shuddered, “And then Mom told me that their bites feel like death, so I cried another hour.”

 

“And I had the entire house cleaned and centipede free the next day,” Papa Yoon claimed.

 

“Only centipedes?” Hyunseung asked, bringing out the meat to be grilled.

 

“Yes, Jeonghan was very fond of the other pests.”

 

Unsurprising.

 

Jeonghan still had a hold on Seungcheol’s sweater, so he hovered around him as he started arranging the meat on the grill.

 

“Want me to stay with you?” Jeonghan pondered the question for a moment.

 

“No, go help Mom,” the omega shooed him away.

 

The kimchi jiggae that was assigned to Seungcheol turned out quite well, and he got a thumbs up from both the mothers.

 

“Wah~ Jeonghan did well with you,” Chanhee praised as she took another sip of the stew. Seungcheol preened. Any praise for his omega was a praise for him as well.

 

At that moment, Jeonghan walked in with two plates piled high with beef. “Dad and Papa Choi will bring in the pork,” he informed them.

 

Finally it was time to eat. With Kkumma fed and put in a small play area in one of the bedrooms, both the families sat down for lunch. Seungcheol didn’t know why he was expecting it to be peaceful. He had to fight to sit next to his husband. In the end his rock had won against Jeongyeon’s scissors.

 

Overjoyed, he fist pumped, roaring a ‘Yesss!’ up to the ceiling. As though he wasn’t married to the man. Jeonghan shook his head amused by the alpha’s antics.

 

“Are you sure you guys are not fated mates?” Jeongyeon quizzed once they had settled in.

 

“Uhh, what makes mates ‘fated mates’?” Jeonghan shot back.

 

“That,” Jeongyeon paused, “I don’t know. Mom?”

 

“Don’t look at me. It’s not often that people get to meet their fated mates,” she shrugged, “It’s very rare to find your fated mate. You’ll have to be really lucky, or have really bad luck. Depends on how you look at it.”

 

Yeah, I would hate it if Jeonghan finds his fated mate one day, or me with mine as well. Ugh.

 

A truly ghastly thing to imagine.

 

Dad cleared his throat, “I’ve heard that it’s similar to falling in love at first sight, but not really.” Clearly no one had any clue as to what fated mates were.

 

“Hyung, are you guys fated mates? Didn’t you fall face first for Chanhee noona?” Seungcheol couldn’t pass up the opportunity for a little ribbing. Hyunseung would’ve thrown the rice at him if it wasn’t for their mother’s warning glare.

 

Jeongyeon mulled over it for a few seconds before shooting another question at them, “What about you guys? Did you feel anything special when you met each other’s eyes for the first time?”

 

“I felt a lot of things when we first met,” Seungcheol left it at that.

 

“And I was a bit tipsy.” Jeonghan winced at the disapproving frowns from both of their parents.

 

“That was very irresponsible of you Han, accepting drink from unknown alphas,” Mama Yoon spoke up, “You got lucky that Seungcheol was the one who approached you.”

 

“I wasn’t drunk when we met,” Jeonghan mumbled, head hung low, picking at his food.

 

“Then why can’t you remember the rest of the night?” Mama Yoon was relentless.

 

“I got drunk after,”

 

“Why?” she prodded further.

 

Cause he thought I’d leave.

 

And there it was the tell-tale blush proving that was exactly what Jeonghan was also thinking about.

 

“I know why,” Seungcheol cheerfully announced. All of them except Sohee, who was too engrossed on her food, leaned in to get the scoop.

 

He didn’t expect a lettuce wrap chock full with meat to be shoved into his mouth just as he opened his mouth to speak. Jeonghan was flushed to his roots. All around, cries of dismay were heard.

 

“Oppa,” Jeongyeon whined, “Now I’m even more curious.” Jeonghan huffed and turned his attention back to his plate. Seungcheol didn’t care, he did expect some form of resistance from the omega anyway. He was still caught off guard, yet too happy to be fed by Jeonghan to care.

 

 Finished with the gargantuan task of swallowing the larger than normal lettuce wrap, Seungcheol set out to make the most delicious wrap for his husband, knowing that the omega will get flustered. He was looking forward to the lightly dusted pink of Jeonghan’s cheeks.  

 

Which was a hard task as Jeonghan was busy making sure that Sohee didn’t fall asleep mid chew. Energy completely drained from running around from morning, and her tummy filled, she was ready to hit the hay. Seungcheol envied her. He could really go for a nap, but instead he had to return to a bunch of sugar high toddlers on a rampage.

 

Both the older ladies, and his father, fussed over the baby alpha, while Chanhee excused herself from the table to get Sohee to bed, taking Kkumma with her along the way. For protection, she said. How effective would a toddler be for protecting another toddler? They’ll probably just take a nap together.

 

The conversation drifted back to the topic of fated mates once Chanhee returned to the table. The general consensus was that all of them would hate to find their preordained mates.

 

“What if the other person’s an absolute jerk? I wouldn’t wanna suffer through that just because they smell a bit nicer,” Jeongyeon pointed out.

 

“But it’s not like binding or something, is it?” Chanhee mused.

 

“I don’t think it is…” Dad didn’t sound so sure, “Not if you’re already bonded with someone else, but there’ll still be a kind off pull or something, so I’ve heard.”

 

Jeonghan hooked his arm around the alpha’s elbow, “Well, I for one declare that we’re soulmates. Seungcheol?”

 

“If to you we are then it’s the same for me,” Seungcheol gave him a lopsided smirk, trying to be as cringe worthy as possible.

 

“That’s not how that works, guys,” Jeongyeon shook her head, while Hyunseung gagged, “Also, gross. Save it for the wedding please.”

 

“Oooh! Did you guys get the new rings yet?” Chanhee peered down at their fingers.

 

“We did, but we’ll only put it on at the ‘wedding’,” Jeonghan explained, “You’ll get to see it then. It’s kinda similar to the ones we currently have on.”

 

“You won’t even show us a picture?” Jeongyeon grouched.

 

“Nope.”

 

“I thought you didn’t care for the party, but you’re pretty into this huh?”

 

“I still don’t care about that. The rings are for the morning, right? Just close family and friends?”

 

“Oh yeah, I’m the officiant-“

 

“A disaster waiting to happen. You’ll have Seungcheol to thank for that,” Jeonghan informed the remaining occupants at the table. Both the mothers and Seungcheol’s father had gotten up to clear the table, shooting down the other’s offered help. Seungcheol just shrugged. Papa Yoon sighed at the reminder.

 

“I’m the host for the evening too,” Jeongyeon chirped cheerfully. Cue another sigh from Papa Yoon. Jeonghan grimaced, “And you’re letting her, Dad?”

 

“It’s not like she would listen to me.”

 

“Put a sock in it you two. We have more important matters to discuss. Namely, what are you two,” she gestured to the couple, “going to be wearing for your pseudo wedding ceremony?”

 

“Um wha-“

 

“Well you can’t be wearing the same thing all through the day,” Chanhee added.

 

“We can’t?” They were messing with her now.

 

“Guys!” Jeongyeon glared at them.

 

“Okay, okay, settle down,” Jeonghan placated his younger sister, “Didn’t you already decide on casual and light, you know, the complete opposite of the evening?” Jeongyeon was having way too much fun with this, but Seungcheol supposed such festivities would not be out of place if they had opted to go with the Yoon family’s usual traditions. His offer to cover the cost of the venue and food for their little ring ceremony was swiftly denied by his in-laws. Their reasoning was that neither Seungcheol nor Jeonghan wanted this so therefore it would be rude to make the couple pay.

 

“But that’s for the rest of us, not for the grooms,” Jeongyeon explained, “You two have to look stunning. Your best men as well, which I’ve already informed them. I’ve already taken care of Joshushu’s, and Jihoon-ssi’s husband told me that he’s got it handled.”

 

Geez when did that happen?

 

Beside him Jeonghan gasped, “Cheol! It’s almost 3’o clock. We gotta leave or we’ll be late.”

 

“Late for what?” Jeonghan’s father questioned.

 

“Sleepover!” They answered at the same time.

 

“Our friends wanted to spend the weekend at our place,” Seungcheol rushed out.

 

“Man, that sounds fun,” Hyunseung stared wistfully at the pineapple slice he just picked up.

 

A maniacal grin on her face, Chanhee ‘consoled’ her husband, “You can enjoy one with your daughter. I hear we’re having a tea party tonight.” Hyunseung stiffened. “Your invited too, Dad,” Chanhee continued. Seungcheol’s father flinched. Seungcheol couldn’t blame them. Sohee was brutal when it came to tea party etiquette. He couldn’t count how many times he got scolded for slouching. He shivered.

 

“You guys are weird,” Jeongyeon rolled her eyes. None of them rose to counter, because it was probably true. The conversation soon turned back to their fits for the ring ceremony. The outlines set out were hard to follow for the fashion illiterate such as themselves. Simple, elegant, and gorgeous, probably better to let Ms. Kailin deal with it. A few of the pieces they had seen during their previous visit should suffice.

 

Eventually it was time for them to leave. They dragged it out as long as possible, mainly due to Sohee being asleep, and Jeonghan feeling guilty for not saying goodbye to her. In the end they had to do just that, lest they reach Seoul after it got dark, and they had promised to pick up Jisoo and Seungkwan along the way. The couple were not too keen on making the omegas wait out on the street after dark.

 

The Yoon family would stay the night as the rest of the family didn’t want Papa Yoon to be driving so late into the night. Seungcheol caught Mama Yoon sharing a secret smile with his mother. Reason enough to anticipate some form of embarrassment in the near future. On the bright side, Sohee had more participants for her tea party now.

 

As hasty goodbyes were being exchanged and Jeonghan was occupied with declining from taking food back with them, Seungcheol sidled up to Jeongyeon, not so subtly fishing for the jerk, Minsoo’s, attendance status. He couldn’t be allowed in Jeonghan’s presence, or, Seungcheol was sure, the omega’s nightmares would get worse.

 

“Ah don’t worry about that jerk, oppa. He legally can’t show himself in Hannie oppa’s presence.”

 

“You gotta restraining order on him?!”

 

“Mm-hmm!”

 

“How?!”

 

“You just need to know the right people,” a devilish grin adorned her face. Seungcheol was impressed. A much younger and naïve Seungcheol would’ve been disgusted by such unabashed power play, but now that he had a mate to protect he wasn’t above such underhanded means.

 

“You know I used be a cop, right?” Chanhee spoke as she and Hyunseung made their way towards them.

 

“Yeah, but you’re on our side,” Seungcheol stated with ease.

 

“True.”

 

“What are you guys talking about?” Jeonghan slinked his arm around Seungcheol’s.

 

“Minsoo. Just wanted to know if he was invited. I would rather not have him anywhere near your vicinity.” As much as the alpha wanted to keep his knowledge about his mate’s recent nightmares a secret, he would rather not keep the truth from the omega.

 

“Oh.” The drop in Jeonghan’s mood was instant. Jeongyeon scrambled to explain the restraining order. Seungcheol shrugged his arm free to instead intertwine their fingers. Squeezing the smaller hand in his from time to time.

 

Normal circumstances would’ve had Jeonghan reprimanding his sister for such a blatant abuse of power, but even he could see how beneficial this would be for the couple. Hopefully this would be enough to remedy the situation with the recurring dreams.

“Good,” Jeonghan replied to the relief of both Jeongyeon and Papa Yoon. Mama, on the other hand, looked like she would’ve physically fought Jeonghan if he had said otherwise. The story of her having threatened Mr.Yoon into a relationship was sounding more and more plausible by the minute.

 

“I wish we could’ve done more to the guy,” Hyunseung lamented.

 

“I mean do you guys want me to do more, cuz I’ll definitely do it. Mercy is not something that I’m usually capable of, but for Hannie’s sake I let the douche off lightly,” Jeongyeon balled her fists.

 

“No, it’s enough. I- I don’t wanna talk about him anymore,” the omega pressed against Seungcheol’s side, shrinking away from the others sensing their anger. Albeit it not being aimed at him, any sort of aggression had Jeonghan feeling skittish. Seungcheol understood him, and in this understanding he reigned in his anger, instead focusing on keeping his mate calm.

 

Even with the anger hanging over them they all nodded in consideration.

 

“If it were me, I would feel the same way as well,” Chanhee agreed, putting an end to that.

 

Just as he was wondering where his parents were, they appeared with a box filled with peaches. Apparently they were not allowed to leave empty handed.

 

Final round of hugs and kisses, and a reaffirmation of the previous promise of strawberries later, the couple finally set off.

 

Settled in comfortably for their trip back home, Seungcheol let their friends know that they were on their way back. Commandeering the alpha’s arm as his pillow, Jeonghan made himself comfortable. Hoping to catch some shut eye, maybe?

 

“Cheol?”

 

“Hm?”

 

“About Minsoo? Did you know?”

 

“About the dreams?” Seungcheol leaned back in his seat, letting Jeonghan loop his arm through his.

 

“Yeah…”

 

“You talk in your sleep, and with all that flailing its hard not to notice.”

 

“I’m sorry,” the omega gave his hand a small squeeze.

 

“Oh no, that’s fine, I don’t mind.”

 

“No, not that. For not telling you.”

 

Seungcheol scoffed, “Hannie, you’re not obliged to share everything with me, unless its life threatening or something, then you have to tell me or I’ll be really, really mad.”

 

“But you share everything with me, and I kept th- these dreams about another alpha from you. It’s almost like I cheated on you!” Jeonghan gasped in horror.

 

“Now wait a minute, babe, How did you jump from not sharing dreams to cheating?” Seungcheol shook his head at the leap in logic his husband made.

 

“I feel guilty,” he confessed. Seungcheol felt bad for bringing it up. He should’ve just discussed it with Jeongyeon through texts or something. “There’s no need for that, okay?” he pressed a few kisses to the side of the omega’s head, “I share my dreams with you because they’re weird, creepy, and often horrifying. Telling you helps me calm down.”

 

“I’m sorry I didn’t tell you. Didn’t want you worrying.”

 

“I know, sweetheart,” Seungcheol nuzzled the top of his head.

 

“Maybe if I had said something, the dreams would’ve stopped,” Jeonghan sighed, the day’s exhaustion was finally catching up to him.

 

“Hm, maybe, maybe not. You shouldn’t feel pressured to share anything. In any case, you should take a nap now. We won’t get much rest once we get back,” Seungcheol grimaced at the thought. Jeonghan groaned.

 

It was going to be a long weekend.

 

 

 

Notes:

I don't know when the next chapter will come out, I can't give any promises cuz I'm supposed to start my training next month. It'll take time to adjust to that change, and my anxiety is going to be through the roof. I also developed insomnia recently so that has been fun. Hopefully the stress from, once I start, work will be enough to knock me out. Also the lack of emojis or emoticons in the replies is due to me being lazy cuz it's really late here.

I really should stop with this unhealthy lifestyle.

Please tell me if there's any spelling or grammatical errors, I'm sure there are a few that have escaped my sight.

Twitter: Min@Minxeori
I don't use it much, or at all, but I do like tweets almost everyday, so if you want to see if I'm still alive that would be a good way. If I've not liked anything for a week, it means that I'm not doing that well, if you catch my drift ^_~

That was inappropriate, I'm sorry.

Notes:

Let me know what I should improve.